FOR THE DEFENSE: Sky Blue FC signs Rutgers grad Benintente

Cassidy Benintente has given Sky Blue FC some cover on defense. (Photo by Jeffrey Auger)

TINTON FALLS, N.J. – Sky Blue FC announced Wednesday that the National Women’s Soccer League team has signed defender Cassidy Benintente, who was acquired via the discovery process.

Benintente, 23, is a native of Jackson, N.J. She is also a graduate of Rutgers University, where she played alongside Sky Blue FC defender Erica Skroski and midfielder Madison Tiernan. They were members of a Scarlet Knights side that reached the NCAA College Cup Final Four in 2015.

“Cassidy has been with us since preseason, so she is very well assimilated into the group,” Sky Blue FC assistant coach David Hodgson said. “All of our players trust her, which we feel is very important in order for us to maintain the improving chemistry of our team. Cassidy is capable of playing in several positions, and she is very familiar with our system and style of play. Her ability is what makes her deserving of this pro contract, but we must also commend her incredible resiliency to stick with the team since the beginning of preseason when there were no guarantees that we would arrive at this moment.”

Benintente also played for Sky Blue FC Development Academy partner PDA and also won two Region I championships while representing New Jersey ODP.

Sky Blue FC visits FC Kansas City Sunday. The team will return home to New Jersey Sunday, Sept. 10, hosting the Washington Spirit for a 6 p.m. kickoff at Yurcak Field in Piscataway.